Full-Electric BMW X3 Prototype Shows Commitment To Zero-Emissions

With BMW planning on expanding its battery-powered lineup to include regular, mainstream models, it looks like it will be the X3 compact SUV that gets to pioneer this technology.

Back in 2016, BMW CEO Harald Kruger stated that a full-electric version of the third-generation X3 will enter markets in 2020, a year later than an electric Mini model. He also mentioned that the X3 EV will have a competitive driving range and price.

“Competitors are now in phase one on their electric strategy, while we’re entering phase two,” added Kruger. “We’re already well on our way to electrifying the core portfolio, using powertrain technology from BMW i.”

The X3 prototype you’re looking at here was caught on camera recently undergoing winter testing, and we can’t help but notice the following two things. One, it has a charge port behind the left-front wheel arch, and two, it doesn’t have any exhaust tips. On top of that, in one of the images, it’s also wearing a sticker that says ‘Electric Test Vehicle’.

Before this full-electric model goes public, BMW would have already launched a plug-in hybrid version of the X3, which could be unveiled either in late 2018 or sometime at the beginning of next year.

Both electrified X3s will continue to offer the same advantages as the regular third-gen car when it comes to safety, convenience and connectivity. This means having available features such as the 3-zone automatic climate control, front ventilated seats, panoramic glass moon roof, ambient lighting, 10.25″ touchscreen display with Gesture Control, BMW Connected app, Remote 3D View and others.

Advanced systems like Active Protection should continue to keep you safe, working together with the likes of the Frontal Collision Warning system, Active Cruise Control, Active Blind Spot Protection, Lane Departure Warning, Daytime Pedestrian Protection, and so on.

If BMW will stick with the 2020 release date, it means we’re either two years away from seeing the final product, or perhaps just one year, since it’s possible the car could be presented sometime next year, well ahead of its market launch.

Photo Credits: S. Baldauf / SB-Medien for CarScoops